Las Vegas Lights FC began their USL Cup group play on Saturday night with a 1-1 draw against Athletic Club Boise at Cashman Field, losing an extra point in a penalty shootout. Boise triumphed in the shootout, winning 4-2 after the match ended level, leaving the Lights with 1 point and Boise with 2 in their group stage opener.

Las Vegas took the lead with a goal from Nighte Pickering in the 61st minute. However, Boise quickly responded, with Keegan Oyler finding the net in the 64th minute, keeping the match tied from that point onward.

Chances Were There, Finish Was Not

Despite not scoring again, the Lights maintained pressure on Boise. Las Vegas recorded 18 shots, with five hitting the target, while Boise managed nine shots, four of which were on goal. Additionally, the Lights dominated set pieces, winning eight corners to Boise’s one, but failed to find the decisive touch.

Boise held a slight edge in possession at 57.6%, yet Las Vegas consistently posed a threat when advancing the ball. Charlie Lanphier defended goal for the Lights, making three saves throughout the match.

Shootout Swings Boise

The shootout commenced with Boise’s Robinson Moshobane missing his attempt. Pickering scored first for Las Vegas, keeping the teams even as Giorgio Probo, Themi Antonoglou, and Marc Ybarra converted their shots as well.

Boise found success after the initial miss, with Jake Dengler, Jake Crull, Moussa Ndiaye, and Dominic Gasso all converting their attempts, leading Boise to a 4-2 victory in the shootout.